The Carers Parliament 2019

The Carers Scotland office has been extremely busy over the past week with the final preparations for the 2019 Carer's Parliament. At this event, a selection of carers from all walks of life are able to come together and make their voices heard to those who can shape policy.

The morning session was particularly affecting as carers had the opportunity to take part in the debate and bring up the issues that they experience. There were MSPs and government officials present, as well as individuals from various organisations and charities, and both Joe Fitzpatrick MSP and Alison Evison from COSLA presented responses at the end of the debate. 

Peter Lawson who spoke at our recent event at RBS was in attendance and brought up the importance of employment for carers and the need to support those with caring responsibilities to access and stay in work. In fact, employment was a hot topic and touched upon by both adult carers and young carers alike, who were concerned that their caring responsibilities would have a negative impact on their futures, finances and wellbeing.

The event continued after lunch with individuals contributing more feedback in the bakery themed Engagement Zone and participating in workshops. At the end of the day, all the feedback from carers was collected and recorded and a report will be created on the event that will go on to shape future policy.